The Best Routes for Overlanding in the UK

Overlanding combines self-sufficiency and off-grid travel, with an emphasis on the journey rather than the destination. While true wild camping is limited in England & Wales, Dartmoor’s designated wild camping areas and Scotland’s more relaxed access laws open up opportunities for off-grid camping so you can experience staying truly self-sufficient and immerse yourself in nature in the UK.

We recently paired up with Em, a content creator who loves travelling in her Land Rover Defender, to test out some of our products off of the beaten track. Look out for her recommendations below!

Scottish Highlands

Dramatic mountains, pretty peaks and endless views make the Scottish Highlands a stand-out overlanding destination in the UK. The iconic North Coast 500 offers 516 miles of winding roads, historic sites and sweeping hills and allows for self-sufficient travel through stunning landscapes. Travellers can opt for well equipped campsites dotted along the route, or embrace a more adventurous spirit by wild camping and enjoying true self-sufficiency in some of the UK’s most breath-taking scenery.

Em Recommends:

The Via Mondo Percolator, ideal for the perfect brew on the go.

Devon

Explore Dartmoor’s breath-taking and scenic landscapes where moorlands, tors and winding rivers create a stunning backdrop for overlanding adventures. Navigate winding off-road trails through woodlands and uplands. As evening falls, experience Dartmoor national park wild camping, one of the few places in England where it’s permitted. Pitch up beneath star filled skies and prepare to fully immerse yourself in unspoiled natural beauty and wildlife.

Em Recommends:

The 2025 Cadac 2 Cook Turbo FFD Deluxe QR for effortless cooking off the grid.

Yorkshire Dales

Rolling hills, cascading waterfalls and picture-perfect villages make the Yorkshire Dales a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure. The region offers several routes ideal for overlanding, including the Cam High Road, a challenging rocky track with Roman history, as well as the remote Swandale & Arkengarthdale routes, perfect for 4x4s and those looking to venture off the beaten path. Whilst wild camping is technically not allowed here without landowners permission, the Dales are not short of welcoming campsites and rustic pitches specifically catered toward overlanders. The blend of rugged trails and convenient stopover points make the Yorkshire Dales an exceptional destination to experience overlanding in the UK.

Em Recommends:

The Gerber ComplEAT Outdoor Cook Set which has everything you need for enjoying delicious meals on the go.

Overlanding lets you see a different side to the countryside, where the focus shifts from the destination to the journey itself. Whether you’re navigating the North Coast 500, exploring the rocky tracks of the Yorkshire Dales or sleeping under the stars in Dartmoor, overlanding in the UK offers a unique blend of adventure as well as heritage.

Before setting off on your overlanding adventure make sure you have everything you need!

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